NTU and EDB will be launching a S$50 million integrated circuit (IC) design research centre.  The centre aims to be a world-class IC design house focusing on "green" microchips and circuits that run on ultra-low power but perform many times faster.  This facility will also collaborate with world renowned universities, top research institutions and well-known companies in its pursuit of excellence in research and development in IC design and technology. Among its key partners is Agilent Technologies, the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemial analysis.  NTU and Agilent will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the launch to seal their partnership.  Located at NTU's Research Techno Plaza, the center is expected to be operational in June 2010 and will boast a team of at least 20 top notch scientists and researches within the next five years.

This is part of the 4 new electronics growth areas identitified: green electronics, bioelectronics, plastic electronics and security.  The new growth areas are expected to contribute to 30% of the total electronics output by 2020.